PhD Studentship: Reversible Photoreactions for Sustainable Materials Synthesis University of Warwick in United Kingdom

[PhD studentship includes home fees plus annual stipend, funded under The Royal Society University Research Fellowship scheme. Funding is open to UK nationals and those of equivalent status. Applicants not meeting UK home fees requirements must secure additional funds to cover the difference between home and overseas fees.]

The Photochemistry for Materials group at the University of Warwick invites applications for a 3.5-year PhD studentship focused on reversible photoreactions for sustainable materials synthesis. Supervised by Dr Hannes Houck and funded under The Royal Society University Research Fellowship scheme, this project offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of organic synthesis, photochemistry, and polymer science. The group aims to design novel chemical building blocks and fine-tune their reactivity to create materials with advanced functionality and improved sustainability.

Research themes include the development of new thermoreversible photocycloaddition reactions, intrinsically recyclable polymer materials (such as covalent adaptable networks), and functional new inks for resin-based 3D printing. The project will involve creating photochemistry platforms capable of quantitative covalent bond formation and reversion under visible light irradiation, enabling smart and responsive material behaviors like self-healing, reprocessing, and closed-loop recycling. The group also addresses sustainability challenges in light-based additive manufacturing technologies, aiming to improve the environmental impact of light-curing inks.

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a good degree (2.1 or 1st class) in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline such as Materials Science. Candidates with interests in photochemistry, photophysics, polymer chemistry, or materials science are particularly encouraged to apply. The studentship covers home fees and an annual stipend, with funding restrictions favoring UK nationals and those of equivalent status. International applicants are welcome but must secure additional funds to cover the difference between home and overseas fees.

The start date is flexible, with the successful candidate able to begin between January and December 2026. To apply, contact Dr Hannes Houck directly via email, including a CV (max. 2 pages) and a cover letter (max. 1 page) outlining your motivation, qualifications, and expectations. Reference letters may be requested later in the process. For further information and to submit your application, visit the University of Warwick's research application portal.